The farmer says the result has been milk with fewer impurities and in greater volume – cows that used to give about 80 pounds of milk per day now average about 90 pounds.

But the farmer also told the Associated Press that he couldn’t credit the waterbeds with all the improvement. He had also upgraded ventilation in his barns and installed misting technology to keep the herd cool.

Classical milk

In Germany, the Dortmund Concert Hall plays recordings of different classical pieces for specific cows. The hall then serves milk from the respective cows during live concerts featuring those same pieces of music.

Does it work?

So, do these techniques work? The Associated Press reports that there is no scientific evidence to back up the claims. But dairy farmers say they can see the difference: cows are giving more milk, the milk quality is improving and the herds seem to be enjoying the indulgences.

Dairy experts say the concept is entertaining but they also agree that dairy farmers need to be careful about introducing new techniques into a herd that’s already relatively comfortable.